Chafee, M.

CHAFEE, MINER, WALKER

Posted By: Gary Norris (email)
Date: 1/13/2013 at 08:20:03

The History of Poweshiek County, Iowa
Des Moines: Union Hist. Co., 1880.

CHAFEE, M.—Grinnell Twp—pg 890-1. Justice of the peace, and manufacturer of the Hawkeye Fanning Mill. Is a native of Springfield, Erie county, New York. Was born on October 18, 1821. Was raised a farmer boy, and received the advantages of a good academical education, and at the age of seventeen years he commenced teaching school, which occupation he followed until he was twenty-seven years of age, his health then failing, he had to give up his school. He then learned the trade of carpenter and joiner. In 1855 he removed to Walworth county, Wisconsin, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits, working at his trade, and manufacturing fanning mills. In December, 1868, he came to Grinnell, since which time has been one of Grinnell’s most honored citizens. Mr. C. has succeeded in working up a large reputation and trade for his fanning mill, and it is conceded by good judges to be the best mill now in use. Mr. Chafee has been chosen by his friends to numerous office of trust, and has been one of the pillars and treasurers of the Congregational Church for eight years. He was married, to Miss Caroline E. Miner, October 24, 1847, at Springfield, New York. By this union they have one son and two daughters: Addie G. (wife of John C. Walker), Charles M. and Susie Mabel.